In a landmark move, Handy Brand, a renowned expert in labels and sticker printing, has transitioned to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) structure, granting its employees a significant stake in the company. This transformative step ensures that a majority share of 51% now belongs to the dedicated team members at the Portishead, Bristol headquarters.

The transition, expertly facilitated by the GS Verde Group, marks a pivotal moment for Handy Brand. Martyn Kilford, the visionary behind Handy Brand, emphasised the strength derived from being a small, cohesive team, stating, “Each team member is an integral cog in the Handy Brand machine. Our collective passion and commitment to excellence are what set us apart from the competition. We take pride in offering personalised, quality advice to our customers, ensuring they receive top-notch printed products, regardless of the order size.”

This new ownership model is a testament to the company’s appreciation of its team’s hard work and dedication, fostering an environment where every employee is motivated to contribute to the brand’s growth, consistency, and loyalty. “Our team’s professionalism and our customers’ loyalty are the cornerstones of Handy Brand’s success. Establishing the EOT is my way of acknowledging their contributions and investing in their continued growth and development,” Kilford added.

The EOT arrangement also introduces a board of trustees, offering staff members the chance to play a direct role in the company’s strategic decisions and operational management. This inclusive approach empowers employees to have a say in the business’s day-to-day activities and financial planning.

Handy Brand encompasses Handy Labels, specialising in sticky labels, and Handy Tags, known for its retail swing tags, bottleneck tags, and door hangers. Serving a diverse clientele from startups to multinational corporations, both divisions are integral to Handy Brand’s success story.

Despite the global challenges presented by the pandemic, Handy Brand experienced a significant increase in order volume, rising by 40% between 2020 and 2021. This growth is attributed to the high demand for hand sanitiser labels and the company’s charitable contributions, including donations of labels to the NHS.

This bold move to employee ownership heralds a new era for Handy Brand, reinforcing its commitment to its team and customers alike, ensuring a future where every member’s contribution is valued and rewarded.